After spending 34 years serving his country, both in uniform and as a civilian, Jewish War Veterans Copper State Post 619 is honored to welcome retired Air Force Master Sergeant Dan Tilsner as its new Commander. At 55 years of age, Tilsner brings a vital new energy to the organization.
Upon graduating from Monticello High School in Monticello, Minn., Dan joined the Air Force where he served 23 years in military intelligence followed by 11 years as a civilian in the Air Force and Army, running intelligence programs.
“My goals as Post Commander,” explains Tilsner, “are to ensure the longevity of our Post by growing its membership and finding additional ways to raise more money to support our needy veterans.” In the past few years, the Post has lost many of its older, active veterans, and “we need to draw in younger people interested in supporting our mission,” says the new Commander, single father of three, including one teen and two adults, and three grandkids.
“It’s truly an honor to be chosen to lead this particular Post,” claims Tilsner. “Even before I arrived, this Post was well known in the veteran community.” He goes on to explain that Copper State Post 619 has about 100 members who have come together with three goals. First is to raise as much money as possible, mainly through biannual Poppy Drives. Next is to distribute these funds to nonprofit veteran organizations that serve at-risk, hospitalized, and veterans experiencing homelessness.
“The third goal is to do our part in combating antisemitism, and we choose to do this through our good deeds,” proudly states Commander Tilsner. JWV Post 619 raises an impressive $25,000 every year, more than any other veteran organization in the area. “This Post has dedicated volunteers who are extremely proud to have changed the lives of many veterans in our community,” boasts Tilsner.
During his career, Dan has always volunteered in the community to help those in need and is especially proud of receiving the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal. His volunteer services have been welcomed by various organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, animal shelters, synagogue boards, Red Cross blood drives, and food delivery during COVID-19, to name a few.
Copper State Post 619 welcomes members of all walks of life. One does not have to be Jewish or a veteran. JWV is happy to open its doors to everyone who is passionate about veterans’ causes and combating antisemitism.
To learn more about this special group, visit the JWV Facebook page www.facebook.com/CopperStatePost619. Anyone wishing to be part of a serious, professional organization with a laser focus on its mission, please email [email protected] or phone 706-631-0025.